Prescription Maps Could Save on N

July 25, 2019 - Nicole Heslip

Remote sensing is helping farmers identify ways to reduce inputs and increase profits. 

Bruno Basso tells Brownfield his remote sensing research has compiled thermal images from more the 70 million corn acres in 10 Midwest states to better understand nitrogen use.

“Farmers could reduce up to 30 percent in economic values basically by applying fertilizer in areas where plants respond.”       

He says areas that are constantly under producing are costing farmers and more nitrogen isn’t helping.

“We need to start managing for profit and not for yield because there are areas that have just not been gifted as much as the other areas so you can make more profit by reducing fertilizer applications where there is no response.”

Basso says the technology can also apply to seeds and other inputs, but nitrogen remains the largest cost for farmers.

His lab is also exploring how low producing areas could be converted to other crops for greater returns and positive environmental benefits.

Basso spoke with Brownfield during the MSU Ag Innovation Day.

Hear the story at Brownfield Ag News.